‘Today the North Carolina NAACP, the Forward Together Moral movement and the Historic Thousands on Jones St Peoples’ Coalition joined the world in mourning the death and celebrating the life of President Nelson Mandela. He was the model of steadfast commitment to justice, a stalwart devotee of loving your oppressor, and possessed an unwavering determination to the principles of human dignity, unity, and fundamental social change.

He was committed to die for the noble principles of equality, justice, and truth which is why his life resurrected South Africa from the despairing depths of apartheid and also provided a new birth of freedom throughout the entire world. His legacy continues to inspire all of us even today.

Now President Mandela, who led the fight for freedom in South Africa and showed all of us the true meaning of liberty and justice for all, is himself free and resting in the bosom of eternity. Free at last, free at last, thank God Almighty after a life of untiring service and sacrifice, he is now free at last to rest from his labors.’